Braves unveil military appreciation jerseys

Red uniforms to be worn in five games in '14, auctioned to aid charities

By Mark Bowman / MLB.com

ATLANTA -- The Braves welcomed Maj. Gen. Jim Butterworth and retired 1st Sgt. Vondell Brown to Turner Field for Wednesday afternoon's unveiling of new military appreciation jerseys that the team will wear during five home games this season.

With team president John Schuerholz, manager Fredi Gonzalez and first baseman Freddie Freeman participating on stage with the two military men, the Braves unveiled the new red jerseys, which include navy and white piping and a navy Braves script adorned with white stars. An American flag patch will rest on the left sleeve.

The Braves are scheduled to wear these jerseys on April 26 vs. the Reds, June 13 vs. the Angels, July 26 vs. the Padres, Aug. 30 vs. the Marlins and Sept. 19 vs. the Mets.

Game-worn jerseys will be auctioned online, with the proceeds aiding various military-supportive charities including the USO, the Wounded Warrior Project, United Military Care, Inc., the Shepard Center's SHARE Program and BraveHeart: Welcome Back Veterans Southeast Initiative.

"We have always supported and recognized our armed forces through various events and community outreach," Schuerholz said. "By creating this new military appreciation jersey, we can bring more attention to them, while also supporting very deserving organizations who will benefit from the auctions and sales of the jerseys."

Mark Bowman is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.